Bacterial Cell Membrane (via Pore Formation)

The bacterial cell membrane, a lipid bilayer composed primarily of phospholipids and proteins, serves as a selective barrier regulating the exchange of substances between the cell and its environment. Pore formation, often mediated by antimicrobial peptides or bacterial pore-forming toxins (PFTs), disrupts this barrier by creating stable pores that allow uncontrolled passage of ions and small molecules. This process leads to cell death and is a key virulence mechanism for many pathogens. Targeting the bacterial cell membrane via pore formation is a potential strategy for developing new antimicrobials.

Other names

Plasma membrane (bacterial)Cytoplasmic membrane (bacterial)

Disruption of membrane integrity via pore formation, leading to loss of cellular contents and cell death.